Bill > HR7140

This bill, known as the Customer Legal Ease and Relief Act or the CLEAR Act, aims to protect businesses that sell products to consumers and individuals who use those products from being directly sued for patent infringement. It proposes adding a new section to U.S. patent law that allows a court to pause or "stay" legal action against a retailer or end user if the manufacturer of the product is also involved in the lawsuit or a related one. This stay would be granted if the retailer or end user didn't make, assemble, or significantly alter the product, and if they agree to be bound by the outcome of the lawsuit against the manufacturer, including any judgments or injunctions. The bill defines "accused instrumentality" as a product or process that is a key part of the claimed invention, and clarifies that "end user" and "retailer" are entities that use or sell the product without manufacturing or directing its creation. The stay can be lifted if the manufacturer cannot satisfy a damages judgment, and in such cases, the court might require the retailer or end user to post a bond or put funds in escrow. The bill also sets time limits for requesting this stay, generally within six months of the lawsuit identifying the product or the manufacturer becoming a party.

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https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/7140/all-info